What is the first thing that strikes your mind when someone says "HORROR FILMS"??? I am sure that for most of us it is a simple answer - GHOSTS. But, there are certain films in this genre which are terrifying and disturbing even without the presence of the paranormal. In fact, these films are more horrific as they tell stories of real persons and certain situations which may occur in real life, as opposed to the ghosts which are a thing of debates. SLEEP TIGHT by Jaume Balagueró is one such film which is more nightmare-ish than many of the ghost stories out there.
César (Luis Tosar) is the superintendent in charge of a block of Barcelonan flats.He has a sick mother, an angry boss and a particular fondness for the lovely Clara (Marta Etura),
one of those pleasant ladies who is always smiling at the world.Without giving too much more away, let’s just say César has motives so ulterior you simply won’t believe the lengths he goes to.The
idea of someone seeing who we are when we think we’re alone is already a
deeply disturbing one, and while Balagueró’s sunny visuals and swing
soundtrack keep things deceptively peppy, Tosar quietly creates one of
the screen’s creepiest, most shocking stalker.
The main character's motive, or lack of motive, in this movie is what
gives it such a chilling effect. Being incapable of happiness himself
he only feels content when he can secretly destroy the happiness of
those around him while outwardly appearing concerned and helpful. He has no connection to his
victims and is not seeking revenge or retribution. He's not interested
in killing them either because physical destruction is not his goal. He
seeks total mental and emotional destruction resulting in a broken
life, prolonging the person's suffering and unhappiness.Both the atmosphere and acting creates a feeling of total violation. Luis Tomar is as creepy as they come and he must be applauded for his performance in this edgy flick.
It is truly amazing how the movie manages to evoke such a feeling of suspense and awkwardness from the audience.I am sure Hitchcock would have been proud of this film as this is one Rear Window meets Funny Games kind of movie but is really so much more. Its creepy and suspenseful. It has wonderful twists and the chilling atmosphere makes it that much more unbearable. One of the top class Spanish films I have ever watched, and I hope more people watch this masterpiece and appreciate it.
I have tried to give away as little away as possible about the plot, and I would recommend everyone to watch this film without reading anything about it beforehand as that would make the film all the more special.
MY VERDICT
**** - Beautifully creepy
